Atap

Atap is the Indonesian and Malay term for the roof of a building, the exterior upper surface that provides weather protection and forms the top boundary of the interior. The atap sits on a structural framework and is shaped to suit climate, tradition, and available materials. In traditional rural areas, atap is often thatched from grass or palm leaves, such as alang-alang or daun rumbia, offering natural insulation. In urban and modern contexts, atap commonly uses clay or concrete tiles (atap genting), metal sheets (galvalume or zincalume), or asphalt or wood shingles.

Regional variations reflect climate and heritage. Steep, sloping thatched roofs are common in rural Southeast Asia to shed heavy rainfall, while tiled or metal roofs are prevalent in towns and cities. In architecture, the design of atap includes eaves, gutters, and ventilation to manage rainwater and heat.

Maintenance considerations include inspecting for leaks, securing loose tiles or thatch, preventing rust on metal surfaces, protecting against pests, and ensuring proper drainage. Replacement costs and approaches vary by material and local availability.